Martin O’Neill has explained why Haissem Hassan was left out of Celtic’s starting XI for the 3-0 defeat to Rangers at Ibrox.
The winger had been in good form heading into the Premier Sports Cup quarter-final, but O’Neill instead started Sebastian Tounekti on the left.
O’Neill has now revealed there was a straightforward reason behind the call.
He said: (TCW), “Young Hassan had an overnight problem, and he didn’t get much sleep in all honesty, so it was just a matter of not starting him because of that.
“That’s the reason, really.”
Hassan was introduced at half-time as Celtic looked for a route back into the game.
The 24-year-old brought more direct running after the break and was one of the livelier Celtic players during a difficult second half.
His omission from the starting XI had looked like a surprising selection decision when the teams were announced, particularly with O’Neill opting to use Tounekti from the left.
The manager’s explanation makes clear it was not simply a tactical decision or a reflection of Hassan’s recent performances.
Tounekti was withdrawn at the break, with Hassan then given the second 45 minutes as Celtic tried to change the flow of the game.
It was a frustrating afternoon for the Hoops as Rangers took control and eventually ran out 3-0 winners.
Hassan’s introduction did at least give Celtic more threat from wide areas, with the winger looking to carry the ball forward and commit defenders.
The two sides meet again at Celtic Park next Sunday, when Hassan will be hoping to force his way back into the starting XI.
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